Traditionally, robots rely on lots of cabling and connectors. However, continuous the auto industry is developing wireless sensors that are quick, reliable, secure and able to resist interference from existing systems.
The Integrated Design and Engineering Environment system analyzes the functional requirements of a product and identifies appropriate materials at an early stage of the development process.
Evolving technology, such as carbon nanotubes, fiber optics and printed electrical systems, may provide the backbone of future electrical distribution systems in cars, trucks, locomotives, aircraft and other vehicles.
Today, just about every square inch of a typical automobile is crammed full of electronic components. Microprocessors, sensors, connectors and other increasingly smaller and more robust devices are inside doors, under seats, behind dashboards, inside tires and under hoods.
In his recent State of the Union address, President Obama challenged Americans to be more innovative. That means developing new materials, new products and new production processes. To tackle that challenge, manufacturing engineers must harness the power of “smart assembly” tools and systems.
Batteries take up valuable space, add weight and provide limited robustness. In the future, many manufacturers will replace batteries with energy harvesting technology-a cost-effective process of converting freely available energy into electricity.
The most recent episode of “Undercover Boss” featured Denny Slagle, president and CEO of Mack Trucks Inc. Other top execs should get out from behind their desks and learn more about plant operations.